12 City MiLB Barnstorming Tour hits a Grand Slam
Summer of 2023 we partnered with Minor League Baseball to bring The Other Boys of Summer to 12 MiLB communities. The film was extremely well received and the film's Director, Lauren Meyer, met fans at every stop, answered questions and shared stories. We shined the spotlight on the humble heroes of the Negro Leagues and inspired people of all ages and demographics. We are proud to have included representation from multiple HBCUs and see the momentum build as the program continues to be a unique way to bring people together, celebrate the trailblazers and inspire change.
A few highlights:
The Greenville Drive kicked things off in June as their team took the field donned in throwback uniforms honoring the Black Spinners. The film played before the game and a panel discussion took place on top of the Drive's dugout.
The Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp hosted a community program at the Historic Ritz Theater and Museum in downtown Jacksonville. The theater was buzzing with excitement as community members, the Edward Waters Baseball Team, Jumbo Shrimp staff and media joined for a welcome reception, film screening and powerful panel featuring local experts in Jacksonville history, segregation and baseball.
The Richmond Flying Squirrels selected August 28, in honor of the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington and the date Jackie Robinson met with Branch Rickey for the first time, for a transformative program at the Black History Museum of Virginia. The program featured Elizabeth Johnson-Rice, civil rights activist and one of the surviving students from the Richmond 34 sit in (1960), Marc Cheatham (Black Baseball Mix Tape podcast), Lauren Meyer (film director) and students and alumni from the Richmond Flying Squirrels / VSU Executive Training Program. Guests explored the museum before and after the film.
The Bowie Baysox hosted a pregame program in their Diamond View Club. Geraldine Day joined us to watch the film. Ms. Day is the widow of Hall of Fame Negro League Pitcher Leon Day. She's also featured in the film. Following the film another great panel took place. Fans of all ages enjoyed the event that brought people together and provided a catalyst for courageous and inspiring conversations.
Photos courtesy of Lauren Meyer, The Greenville Drive, Norfolk Tides, Montgomery Biscuits, Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, Richmond Flying Squirrels and Bowie Baysox
The Other Boys of Summer is available as the centerpiece of a unique Diversity, Equity and Inclusion program that has positively impacted over 100 companies, communities, schools and organizations so far.
For information contact: TheOtherBoysofSummer@gmail.com
